The Music Lens Podcast

Send us Fan MailDo you know which color M&Ms Van Halen banned from their green room in their rider? What about which artist has had a Billboard number 1 hit in each of the last four decades? We're testing each other with music trivia this week. Join us and see how many of these you know too!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailOur Widening The Lens series is back, and we're welcoming Miggie Snyder onto the podcast!Miggie Snyder is an independent pop artist based in Nashville, TN. She has been releasing music since 2020 and is proud to write, produce, and record all of her music. She has had viral success with multiple songs including her singles "Legend Lake", "music man" and "How To Write A Love Song", with each gaining millions of views on social media. Her song "Legend Lake" continues to be her most streamed song, with over 1.5+ million streams to date. While she has strong ties to the midwest, she has performed all across the USA, including many notable venues - Hey Nonny (Arlington Heights, IL), Blue Strawberry (St. Louis), The Listening Room (Nashville, TN) and The East Room (Nashville, TN). She is inspired by artists like Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, and Renee Rapp, and uses her theatrical background to bring comedic relief to all her shows. Miggie is proud to have fans not only all over the US, but worldwide, including large groups in Canada, the UK, Germany and Australia. Most recently, she released her sophomore album, Hot & Young, which gained 50k+ streams in the first week.Go check out Miggie and follow her here:Listen to Hot & YoungWebsiteInstagramTikTokHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailBillboard released their staff picks of the top 50 albums of 2026 so far, and we decided to take a look at the top 20 of them this week. Join us as we take a very genre-diverse journey through new albums by some artists that we know, such as Ella Langley and Harry Styles, and many that we are discovering for the first time.Resources:Best Albums of 2026: Our 50 Favorites So Far (Staff Picks)Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy July! It's time again for a recap on new music that came out this past month!New Music:Tenille Townes: “Sunshine’s Free”Paige King Johnson: “It Ain’t Me”Lauren Alaina: “Better Off"Maoli and Maddie Font: “Runnin’ Me Off”First song from Maddie without Tae.Maddie Lenhart: “Newton’s First Law”Taylor Swift: “I Knew It, I Knew You”Lainey Wilson ft. John Mayer: “Phone, Keys, Wallet”Ian Munsick: “World War III”Brent Snyder: “Michigan”Savannah Keyes: “Get a Dog”Kristian Veech: Will (Deluxe Edition)LEW: “Eye Candy”Bandana Cheyenna: The Artist’s Pilgrimage ACT 2: The DesertMarshmello and Kelsea Ballerini: “Another Drink”Dan + Shay: “Marry You Again”Carly Pearce: “She Don’t”Cody Johnson: Banks of the TrinityOlivia Rodrigo: you seem pretty sad for a girl so in loveHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe're celebrating pride month this year by bringing you two episodes highlighting LGBTQ+ musicians in history, the second of which is one of the leading pop stars of the '80s and '90s, George Michael. Follow along as we discuss everything from his time in Wham! to his solo career, controversial headlines, and a 2008 comeback.Resources:George MichaelHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy Pride Month! To celebrate this year, we're bringing you two episodes highlighting LGBTQ+ musicians in history. Up first is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Russian composer of popular works such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker. Join us as we shift gears into the world of classical music to discuss the life, love, and music of Tchaikovsky.ResourcesCelebrating Pride with TchaikovskyPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky WikipediaKennedy CenterHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailCMA Fest took over Music City this past weekend, and it was jam packed full of killer sets, big surprises, and tons of fun! Join as we as recap our experience with this year's festival.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe're back with another monthly rendition of new music and music news! Join us as we talk about some of amazing music that dropped in May as well as some music news discussions pertaining to the ever evolving state of the music industry.Resources:Brad Paisley 'Tacklebox' ProjectFred again Dropbox CollabWho is Stella Lefty?New Music:Braid Paisley: TackleboxBandana Cheyenna: "Devil in the Desert"Tigirlily Gold: "I Do or Die"Russell Dickerson Ft. Fetty Wap: "Boots"Ashley Cooke: "high school sweetheart"Abbie Callahan: "Drag, Queen"Kristian Veech: WillAshley McBryde: WildAdam Mac: "Hate To See Me Coming"The Cowgays: "Good Hoedown"Megan Moroney: "Traitor (Roles Reverse)"SJ McDonald: We Didn't Make It That FarStella Lefty: Is This Heaven?Kacey Musgraves: Middle of NowhereHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailThis year's ACM Awards were filled with strong performances and record-setting wins! Join us as we discuss and give you a play-by-play of all the action.ResourcesRecord Setters at the ACMsHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailBlue Dot Fever: a music industry term coined to describe the growing list of cancelled tours. Are these cancellations from low ticket sales due to high ticket prices, artists booking too big of venues for their audience, or perhaps a bit of both? Join us as we discuss this current industry trend in our first remotely recorded episode.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIf you grew up in the 2000s, odds are you've watched a Disney Channel Original Movie or two as well as Hannah Montana. Have you ever noticed how so many of those movies/shows made it seem like getting famous is incredibly easy? Join us as we discuss this strange, reoccurring theme of 2000s Disney Channel.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailSome incredible music came out this past month! Join us as we discuss new releases as well as music news, including the ACM Awards nominees.Music News:Live Nation and Ticketmaster CaseACM Awards NomineesNew Music:Just Jayne: “Love A Loser”Dan + Shay: “Say So”LEW: “Someone I Want You To Meet”Miley Cyrus and Lainey Wilson: “Younger You”Belles, Dolly Parton:  “Son of Jolene”Tenille Townes: The AcrobatLauren Alaina: “Raining Whiskey”Charlie Worsham: “Grass”Ally Honeywell: “Alyssa”Tiffany Johnson: TemptressElla Langley: DandelionElla Langley and Morgan Wallen: “I Can’t Love You Anymore”Olivia Rodrigo: "drop dead"Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe recently took a trip to down to New Orleans, so we thought we oughta do a dive into the history of the city's deep music roots. From jazz and gospel, to R&B and hip-hop, to opera, brass bands, and rock & roll, join us as we discuss the various sounds that make up the soundtrack of NOLA.Resources:Music of New OrleansNew Orleans: The Birthplace of American MusicNew Orleans Music History300 Years of New Orleans MusicHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIn this installment of our Widening The Lens series, we're welcoming full-time independent artist Amanda McCarthy onto the podcast!Most people don't exactly plan to drop out of college, become a parent before the age of 21, and move to a new city in the middle of a pandemic - but Amanda McCarthy has always been pretty good at tackling the unexpected head on.In a situation where most would have given up and settled for a traditional 9-5, she has gone on to make a full time living out of her music playing on every kind of stage you can imagine - from coffee shops and smokey bars, to opening for national headliners, winning awards with her original music, and playing iconic venues across the country like The Listening Room, Live Oak, 3rd and Lindsley, Bluebird Cafe, Bus Call (Nashville), The Bitter End, Mercury Lounge, Piano's (NYC), multiple Hard Rock Cafe locations, and hundreds more with thousands of shows under her belt.Go check out more about Amanda and follow her here:WebsiteFacebookInstagramSpotifyHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailTake a dive with us into the world of touring as we discuss various touring terminology that you may come across on the road!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailJoin us as we discuss the latest music releases from the past month!New Music:SJ McDonald: “Blue Ridge Red"Hunter Hayes: EvergreenRussell Dickerson: Worth Your Wild EPGracie Carol: “Fake Flowers”Lainey Wilson: “Can’t Sit Still”Erin Kinsey: “Reasons Why We Broke Up”Julia Larkin: “Changes”Kacey Musgraves: “Dry Spell”Carly Pearce, Riley Green: “If I Don’t Leave I’m Gonna Stay”Avery Anna: forgive, forgetAmanda McCarthy: “green”Charlie Worsham, Lainey Wilson: “They Never Do”Luke Combs: The Way I AmAshley Cooke : "xs"Tigirlily Gold: “Country & Midwestern”Ian Munsick: “Love is Blind”Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe're taking you back into our Artist Inventory series to discuss another member of an artist's team: the music director. Join us for a discussion on what the role of a music director entails, how it's similar/different to the role of a band leader, and how you can apply the skills of a music director into your own career yourself.ResourcesBerkleeWhat Does It Take To Be A Musical Director?Guide To Common Creative Roles In The Music IndustryHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIn this installment of our Widening The Lens series, we're welcoming Korie Burton Rott from One Writer To Another onto the podcast!Born and raised in South Carolina, Korie moved to Music City at the age of 18 to attend Middle Tennessee State University and begin her pursuit of a career in the music industry. With a passion in both country and pop music, her main goal as a creative is to help other artists tell their stories through the art of songwriting. Korie has received 20 cuts as an independent writer with a collective 1.7 million streams on Spotify alone.Korie is heavily involved in the music industry, even when she’s not writing. She enjoys helping other artists and songwriters learn more about administration and royalties through her consulting business, One Writer To Another. She has also hosted many writers rounds through her show, The Co-Writers Round, which emphasizes the importance of collaboration in music.Korie is a big football and NASCAR fan, and will take any opportunity given to talk about her two dogs: Scamp & Gilly. Most recently, Korie received two Top 10 nominations in NSAI’s 26th Annual Song Contest. She has also co-written songs recognized in both the International Songwriting Competition and American Songwriter’s Annual Song Contest.Go give Korie a follow and learn more about her here!One Writer To Another WebsiteFollow One Writer To Another on InstagramHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy Women's History Month! We're celebrating two women who were both deemed mothers of their genres: Sylvia Robinson and Mother Maybelle Carter. Join us as we discuss these two pioneers and how Hip-Hop and Country wouldn't be what they are today without these incredible women's contributions.Resources:Sylvia RobinsonLesley RiddleMaybelle Carter WikipediaMaybelle Carter, The Mother of Popular Country MusicHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailFebruary (and end of January) was filled with new music! Join us as we discuss our favs!New Music:Ella Langley: "Dandelion" and "Be Her"Ian Munsick: "Geronimo"Tim McGraw, Eric Church, HARDY, Morgan Wallen: "McArthur"Amanda McCarthy: Looking For The LightRussell Dickerson: "The Roses"Luke Combs: "Be By You"Sam Ferrara: "Second Place"Emily Ann Roberts: "Whipped"The Band Perry: "PSYCHOLOGICAL"Chloe Collins: BombshellAlex Amato: On My OwnMegan Moroney: Cloud 9Katie Fee: Whiskey & SunsetsHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy Black History Month! We're taking the time to highlight Black voices who have been trailblazers in the music industry. Join us as we learn about the pioneer of neo-soul, D'Angelo, as well as the Black Opry, a movement to raise awareness for Black artists in country music.Resources:D'Angelo - WikipediaD'Angelo - VarietyBlack OpryHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIn our second episode of our Widening The Lens series, we welcome Kristian Veech to the podcast!Taking a songwriter-centric to production, Kristian Veech is a Nashville based producer, and mixing & mastering engineer whose work covers a wide variety of genres. From country, to pop, to rock, and everything in between, Kristian blends classic and familiar sounds with modern production techniques to create cutting edge, and fresh sounding productions.Go give Kristian a follow and check out his music here!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIt's time again for our annual Grammy Awards episode! Join us for a recap and review of this year's looks, performances, and awards!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe’re kicking off February with a roundup of new music we enjoyed from January, along with a few industry headlines, including the Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees and a recent copyright case involving Drew Barrymore.Resources:Songwriters HOF InducteesDrew Barrymore Copyright Infringement CaseNew Music:Amanda McCarthy: "LOL WTF"BANDANA CHEYENNA: "The Artist's Pilgrimage: ACT 1: THE DREAM"Kate Cosentino and Melina KB: "Two Kids in a Trench Coat"SJ McDonald: "You Say Vegas"Kalea Jordan: "Alarm"Megan Moroney: "Wish I Didn't"Harry Styles: "Aperture"Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailBefore producers were household names, Joe Meek and Sam Phillips were quietly (and sometimes chaotically) changing the sound of popular music. In this episode, we explore how Meek’s DIY experimentation and Phillips’ work at Sun Records helped launch new sounds, new artists, and a whole new way of thinking about recording.Resources:Joe MeekSam PhillipsHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWelcome to our new monthly series, "Widening The Lens", where we invite guests onto the pod to broaden our perspectives about different aspects of the music industry. Our guest for the inaugural episode is our good friend and collaborator, Sammy Kay.Sammy Kay is an independent folk-pop singer-songwriter based in Nashville, TN. Her music inspirations include Taylor Swift, Ingrid Michaelson, and Vance Joy. She just released two new singles last year titled “Baby Shower” and “Pearl” that you can find on all streaming platforms!Go give Sammy a follow and check out her music here!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to the latest part in the Artist Inventory series, a dive into how to build an EPK. EPKs are essential tools for artists looking to book gigs, gain press, and showcase their work to potential industry collaborators. Join us for a discussion on the elements that make up an EPK as well as other tips and tricks to set you up for success.Resources:Earlier Podcast Episode: How to Tour as an Independent ArtistHow to Create a Successful EPKHow to Create an EPK for MusiciansHow to Write an Effective Musician BiographyHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy New Year, everyone! We're kicking off our first episode of 2026 with a chat about new music and music news, including the Songwriters' Hall of Fame Induction nominees and more!Resources:Songwriters Hall of Fame NomineesSongwriters Will Get Paid More for Streaming Royalties Starting TodayAmanda McCarthy's "Lifeline (Healed)"BANDANA CHEYENNA's "Colorado Baby" and "Back to Light"Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailFor our final episode of the year, we’re hitting pause and looking back on the music that defined it for us. We talk favorite albums and songs, artists we loved seeing live, shows we played ourselves, and the moments that made this year unforgettable. We also look ahead to what’s next, sharing a few goals and hopes for the year to come. Thanks for being part of the ride — we’ll see you next year.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we kick things off with a run-through of the history of music videos from technical invention to MTV to YouTube before getting into why they still matter today, just for totally different reasons. We talk branding, storytelling, fan connection, and why videos aren’t about chasing TV play anymore… but they do still shape how an artist shows up in the world.Resources:The Music Video: Before TelevisionMusic Video - WikipediaHow YouTube Changed The Music Industry ForeverMTV & The Birth of Viral MarketingHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailAI “artists” showing up on charts? Yeah… we have thoughts. We run through a few of the names popping up, why it’s frustrating to see them take up space, and why the chart they landed on isn’t even that important. Plus, we get into why AI can’t replace real human creators—no matter how good the tech gets.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailICYMI, the nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards were announced last week! Join us for a discussion on who's nominated, who should've been nominated, and more!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe're diving into the world of parasocial relationships — those one-sided bonds fans form with artists, celebrities, or even fictional characters. From the rise of Stan culture to the pressures it puts on independent musicians, we explore how these connections can both help and harm. We talk about healthy fandom, setting boundaries, and what happens when the line between admiration and obsession starts to blur.ResourcesPsychology TodayTHE RISE OF THE STAN: DO PARASOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS HELP OR HINDER INDEPENDENT MUSICIANS?Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailDeluxe albums: marketing genius or creative overload? We break down the history of the deluxe release, the songs we love that wouldn’t exist without it, and whether they still serve a purpose in today’s music industry.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe’re back with a new roundup of the latest music and news! From fresh tracks by Jordan Davis, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominion, and more, we’re sharing what we’ve been loving—and what’s left us on the fence. Plus, we dive into deluxe albums: are they really necessary, or should artists just move on to their next chapter?Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailGuess who’s back?! After a little summer hiatus, we’re kicking off the pod again. In this episode, we’re catching up like old friends—swapping stories from our summer, sharing some behind-the-scenes updates, and talking about what’s next for the podcast. It feels good to be back, and we can’t wait to bring you along for the ride!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy Pride Month!We're spotlighting two groundbreaking LGBTQ+ artists who helped pave the way for generations to come. First, we dive into the legacy of Ma Rainey, the “Mother of the Blues,” whose bold lyrics and unapologetic identity made her a trailblazer in early American music. Then, we explore the story of Jobriath, the glam rock pioneer whose short but impactful career in the 1970s challenged norms and opened doors for queer representation in rock. Join us as we celebrate their contributions, impact, and the importance of visibility in music history.Resources:Ma RaineyMa Rainey's Bisexuality Was A Revolutionary Act in the 1920s That Still Matters TodayJobriathHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWe’re recapping our CMA Fest experience—from stormy setbacks to sweet puppy snuggles and, of course, nonstop country music. Tune in as we share the highs, the lows, and everything in between from one of the biggest weekends in country music!Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailAfter a recap of Eric Church's one-of-a-kind show at The Pinnacle, we're diving into the basics of a record label contract. Join us as we break down the basics, from key beginner terms to a few advanced ones that every artist should understand before signing a deal.Resources:What a Record Label Deal Looks LikeRecording Contracts TerminologyRecording Contracts ExplainedAll You Need To Know About The Music Business - Donald S. PassmanHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailStep into the hazy hills of Los Angeles and uncover the story of Laurel Canyon — the unlikely neighborhood that became the epicenter of a musical revolution. In this episode, we dive into how this tucked-away enclave in the Hollywood Hills transformed into a creative sanctuary during the 1960s and '70s, attracting legends like Joni Mitchell, The Byrds, Frank Zappa, Crosby, Stills & Nash, The Mamas & the Papas, and more.Resources:'The Truth Doesn't Rhyme'Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailThe 60th American Country Music Awards was more than just a celebration of 2024’s biggest stars — it was a tribute to six decades of country music history. This week on the podcast, we’re breaking down the night: the standout performances, the surprising wins (and snubs), and the fashion moments that had us talking.From heartfelt tributes to the future of the genre, we’re recapping all the highlights and sharing our unfiltered thoughts on what made this milestone show one to remember.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailThis week, we’re unpacking some of the freshest drops in music and major tour announcements. Tune in as we explore Eric Church’s bold new album Evangeline vs. The Machine, Maddie & Tae’s heartfelt release Love & Light, plus the buzz around Katy Perry’s Lifetimes Tour and Beyoncé’s epic Cowboy Carter Tour.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailFestival season is officially underway — Coachella and Stagecoach have already set the stage, and now it’s our turn to join the celebration in our own way. In this fun-filled episode, we kick things off by designing our ultimate dream festivals— complete with fantasy lineups, fun names, and all the vibes we wish we could experience in real life.But the party doesn’t stop there! After curating our personal mega-festivals, we dive into a music-themed board game that puts our knowledge and creativity to the test. It’s a laid-back, laughter-filled episode perfect for festival lovers, music nerds, and anyone who wants to join in on the fun.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailThis week on The Music Lens Podcast, we’re trading music business talk for neon lights and rooftop bars. Join us as we recap an unforgettable night on Broadway in Nashville—made even more wild by storms, downpours, and a full-on tornado warning.But that’s not all! We also break down our night at an Ian Munsick concert at Nashville's newest music venue, The Pinnacle, where modern country met mountain soul in the best way possible. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to his music, you'll want to hear our take on his live show, setlist surprises, and the vibe of the crowd.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailIn part two of music production DIY, we're discussing the last two steps to producing a song: mixing and mastering. Join us to hear about the difference between the two, setting levels, EQ, compression, and more!ResourcesAvid How To Mix MusicLANDR How To Mix MusicHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailFollowing a discussion into the nominees for the 60th ACM Awards, we're turning our attention to a cornerstone of Nashville's songwriting scene: the writers' round.If you've ever played—or watched—one, you know it's a special kind of magic. But do you know where the format came from or how it started? In this episode, we explore the roots of the writers' round and how it became a beloved tradition in Music City. Tune in and uncover the story behind the round.Have a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWith today's technology, anyone can learn how to produce music on a relatively low budget. From which equipment you need to setting up and actually recording, we're discussing what you need to do to get started producing music by at home!Resources:LANDR Music ProductionLANDR Home StudioLANDR 50 Best MIDI ControllersHow To Set Recording LevelsAVID: How To Produce MusicAVID: How To Edit AudioHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailThere's always something (or many, many things) going on in the music industry, so we're taking this episode to catch up on some of its current events. Join us for some new music, some award shows, Broadway happenings, and more!ResourcesBillboard Women in MusicSabrina CarpenterAnna VausHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailWhen you hear the term "ghostwriter", you probably think of books, but did you know that ghostwriting happens in music industry too? Join us for a discussion about what a ghostwriter is and how it differs from a work-for-hire in this week's episode.ResourcesFamous Artists Who Moonlight As GhostwritersThe Power of Ghostwriting in MusicInvisible MusiciansHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast

Send us Fan MailHappy Women's History Month! It's our second year celebrating and we're discussing updated statistics on women in music as well as highlighting women who achieved great success in the past year.Resources:Barbie Career of the YearInclusion in the Recording Studio2024's Top Women in MusicHave a question, story, or feedback to share? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube at:  @themusiclenspodcastYou can also follow Alex and Katie on all socials at: @alexallegramusic and @katiefeemusicGet 15% off your Comfrt order: https://www.comfrt.com/TheMusicLensPodcast